Bernard James Frey

Bernard James Frey of Gainesville, VA passed away April 26, 2024. Born (and raised) in 1932 in Pittsburgh, PA, Bernie was the son of the late John William Ambrose (JWA) Frey and late Ellen Marie Andrew Frey. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Irene, and their five children: Mickey (Michele) Frey of Philadelphia, PA; Ellen (Jim) Krafty of Summerfield, FL; Ron (Connie) Frey of Fairport Harbor, OH; Mary (Phil) Reynolds of Triangle, VA; and Beth (Walter) Teal of Gainesville, VA. He is also survived by his 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and in-laws: Lorraine (Ambrose) CA, Kathy (Charles) PA, and Sue (Thomas) TX, Dorothy and Jack Mueller FL, and Michael and Marianne Sapsara NC. Bernie was preceded in death by his 12 brothers and sisters: John (Mary Margaret), George (Mary Catherine), William (Mary), Ambrose (Lorraine), Fr. Lawrence, Sr. Marie, Cathrine (Bernie) Jansen, Charles (Kathy), Msgr. Francis, Thomas (Sue), Ellen (Jerry) Pry, Alice (Chuck) Kenawell. Bernie graduated from Central Catholic High School and from Duquesne University. He earned a Second Lieutenant commission in ROTC and became a jet instructor pilot and was honorably discharged as Captain. He worked in computers as Manager of Information Systems for several companies including Joy Manufacturing, Babcock and Wilcox, Bailey Controls in OH, and Legal Services in Washington DC. From there he opened the Bird Feeding Station in Winchester, VA with his wife Irene where they shared their love of birding with their many loyal customers. They retired to Meadville, PA where birding is abundant, and from their condo window spotted a rare Rocky Mountain bird: Gray-Crowned Rosy Finch. Bernie also enjoyed singing, playing the piano and harmonica, art, wood carving and attending his annual Frey Family Reunion. He loved taking his young family camping and fishing, where he shared his love for the great outdoors. He loved God his Catholic faith and was active in his local church wherever he lived. More than anything, Bernie’s pride and joy was his family: his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, his siblings, 78 nieces and nephews, and countless great- and great-great nieces and nephews.

Bernard James Frey

January 23, 1932 - April 26, 2024